EAST LANSING, Mich. -
Michigan State head football coach Mark Dantonio, who suffered a heart attack early Sunday morning shortly after his team's 34-31 overtime victory over Notre Dame, was discharged from Sparrow Hospital Tuesday afternoon and returned home around 3 p.m. EDT.

"I'm anxious and excited to be home with my family," Dantonio said. "My focus now is on recovery and being a model patient for Dr. Chris D'Haem (Thoracic and Cardiovascular Institute/Sparrow, who performed the cardiac catheterization procedure).

"The outpouring of support has been simply overwhelming and comforting. My family and I have received countless cards, e-mails and text messages. It's impossible for me to express just how much the support and encouragement means to me and my family.

"I want to thank the Sparrow Hospital staff for their care and professionalism, especially Dr. Dale Leffler (TCI/Sparrow) and Physicians Assistant James Stewart (TCI/Sparrow), as well as Dr. George Abela (Division Chief of MSU Cardiology). In addition, I want to express my sincere appreciation to (MSU Assistant Athletics Director/Head Athletic Trainer) Jeff Monroe, (Associate Athletic Trainer) Dr. Sally Nogle and (Football Primary Care Physician) Dr. Randy Pearson for their care at Spartan Stadium. Finally, I want to thank MSU Athletics Director Mark Hollis for his care and concern, plus his assistance in coordinating a smooth transition in football operations, with Don Treadwell now managing the day-to-day responsibilities.

"I haven't established a timeline for my return, but I have the utmost confidence in Coach Treadwell and the rest of the coaching staff to carry on with business as usual in my absence. I know that I must gradually work my way back onto the sidelines."